Q&A for How to Deal With Annoying Siblings

Try saying something like this: “I’m sorry, [their name], but I would like to do this/talk about this at a time when I’m a bit calmer, and I need you to please respect that and give me some space." Then just go in your room or somewhere else that you won't be bothered.

Have a calm conversation with your parents about this. Make sure you don't come across like you're telling on them, explain that you're genuinely looking for a solution to this problem. I'm sure your parents will try their best to help you.

If your sibling is trying to start a fight with you, stay calm, tell them you're not going to fight them, and walk away. If they continue, tell a parent what's going on.

If the situation is really extreme, like he's hitting people, cursing them out, etc., a visit to a psychiatrist is in order. But if he's just talking back, being impolite, etc., try a simple punishment, like grounding, taking away privileges or electronics, etc.

Just ignore them. They can't find a complete non-reaction funny. Or, they can pretend to, but they'll get bored eventually.

They typically do so because they want attention, but aren't yet emotionally mature enough to understand how to go about getting it the proper way.

Help them. If you can't do it right that second, say something like, "Please calm down, I'm going to help you. Just give me a moment."

Ask her what makes her angry. You may not realize what it is that makes her angry, and if you talk it out and she tells you, then you can try not to do it next time. If she gets angered over the littlest things, or nothing at all, then you may need to talk with your parents about what's going on.

Politely ask them to calm down. If they continue, either leave the room and try to cope, or tell your parents if it's really bothering you.

Do the same to her. Hide something of hers and only give it back to her when she tells you where she put your things.

Walk away when you're so upset that you're thinking about hitting her. Tell her that you're really angry and you need some space. Do something less destructive with your anger, like punching or screaming into a pillow. Remember, your sister is family, no matter what. Even if she's annoying, you'll be really happy you have her someday.

Everybody acts different when other people are around. If you think she's being fake, try talking to her about this in private. Don't tell her she's being fake, just say something like, "It seems like you act different when [so-and-so] is over. Why is that?" Try to have a real conversation. Make sure she knows that it's important to be herself.

If you have let her know that she is making you uncomfortable and she won't stop, let one of your parents know what's going on.

Ignore your sibling. It's not your parents' job to constantly mediate between you when nothing serious is going on. If you don't pay any attention to your sibling, they'll eventually stop. If possible, go in another room and put in earbuds.

Your Switch should have 2-player games, or you can just set up equal time limits. For example, you could play for 30 minutes, then give it to her for 30 minutes.

Calmly tell them how you feel. You can maybe set a certain time each week or however often you need to just talk. You could also write letters about how you're feeling. Just let your parent know what they're doing that is bothering you, while being as respectful as possible.

Don't argue back. Your brother can't have an argument with you if you don't engage.

Talk to your parents about your concerns. They may be able to help you and your sister come to an agreement.

Take a few deep breaths to try to calm yourself down, then apologize, even if they were being annoying. Try to have more patience in the future.

Ask him to stop, and tell him why it's not okay to say that word. If he continues saying it, tell a parent.

Ask her politely if she can refrain from singing when you're around, or just go in another room or put in earbuds. As for other behaviors that might be bothering you, it would be a good idea to talk to your parents about the best way to approach handling the situation, because it really depends on the specific symptoms of her autism, how she responds to communication and criticism, etc.

Ignore them, or find something they can all do together that doesn't require you. Set them up with a board game, card game, movie, etc.

Spend more time with her, treat her kindly, share your things with her, etc. When she gets upset, or throws a tantrum, don't yell at her. Instead, ask her why she's upset. Communication is the most important thing in any relationship.

Stay calm when you confront them. Be firm, but don't yell. If they cry, say something like, "I'm sorry you're upset, I'm just asking you to be more respectful of me and my things. I respect you, and I need you treat me the same way." Obviously you will need to tailor the exact words to the situation.

Ask her if you can play school with her, or invite her to play a board or card game with you. Try to choose a game you know she likes. If she's truly blowing up at you every time you try to talk to her, bring this up to your parents, they may need to have a talk with her.

Ask her to stop and tell her that it makes you feel bad. If she does not stop, then avoid talking to her as much as possible and pretend that you don't care about the mean things that she says to you. And remember, your feelings do matter.

If you are old enough, then you might want to consider actually leaving the house . If you are still a kid, however, then you should contact Child Protective Services, as this is an abusive situation that you are living in.

Talk to a counselor at school to see if you can find out why you hate your sibling. The counselor will be understanding and will help you figure out what to do about your feelings.

Show him/her that you don’t care (even if you're faking it) by ignoring them. I know it's hard to do that, but when they see they can't get to you, they'll get bored and stop.

Then stop doing what you are doing and apologize. You may still get in trouble, but your punishment may be less severe if you apologize.